Sad Daddy is a band I didn’t know about until I started writing this review. Almost literally.

Yet, this album proved to be the therapy I needed after a week of ups and downs at work. I’m not a folk or bluegrass guy by default, but some bands exist to remind me of the simpler things. And sometimes a laid back album chock full of fiddle is set to do the trick. I wish I had some moonshine nearby. I guess I’ll have to settle for whiskey a bit later (I recommend Watershed if you ever swing through Columbus).

So how simple does it get with this band? Let’s take a look at the song “Back in Arkansas” shall we? The second verse reads:

Back in Arkansas, some folks ain’t got a dollar / and they never leave the holler, back in Arkansas / They know what weeds to eat, go fishin’ in the creek / Roast some squirrel on the fire, back in Arkansas.

That’s not where you thought I was going, eh? A touch of social commentary there. Yet, while on a normal day the thought of roasted squirrel would make me gag, as I sit here listening to this band I’m thinking “you know, I bet it ain’t that bad. I’d love to meet some folks that can cook a mean squirrel down home.” And I’m not even from the Deep South! I’m also sitting here contemplating the deeper meaning behind “Hangin’ Them Clothes on the Line” and how that song could be for children. By the way, if you don’t think any children’s songs have deep meaning, I suggest you take a close listen to “Ring Around the Rosie ” – that shit is dark, man!

That’s the effect on the listener this whole record has. Unexpected nostalgia for places you’ve never been, and things you’ve never done.

The most satisfying listen on the record might go to “Cold Rain” – a reserved melancholy epic. Chock full of everything you need for a cozy evening. A rainy day song for the south with harmonies and stomp-claps aplenty. “Poor Man’s Son” comes in a close second with its old-timey melody reminiscent of folk spirituals. You’ll swear you’ve heard this before – but you haven’t.

In a moment of inspiration, I landed on Sad Daddy as my band of choice to attempt to scratch a bluegrass itch. I’m happy to report a success.

Follow the band on Facebook and Instagram.